What Is TrapTox?
TrapTox is a procedure where a neuromodulator—such as Botox, Daxxify, Dysport, or Jeuveau, – is injected into the trapezius muscle. This large, triangular muscle spans the neck, shoulders, and upper back, helping to support posture and shoulder movement.
In many people, the trapezius becomes overactive due to stress, posture habits, or muscular overuse, leading to pain, tension, or a bulkier shoulder contour. By injecting neuromodulators, the muscle relaxes, offering both relief from discomfort and a sleeker, more elongated appearance.
Why choose TrapTox?
According to board certified dermatologist Dr. Lisa Ishii, TrapTox has both aesthetic and therapeutic benefits.
Aesthetic Benefits:
Like any muscle that we train and exercise, an overactive trapezius can cause bulkiness where the neck and shoulders meet. By relaxing the muscle, we can slim the neck and shoulder area, allowing for a more elegant and elongated neckline and shoulder contour.
Therapeutic Relief:
Relaxing an overactive trapezius can relieve tension over the shoulders and neck. In the right candidate, this can help with chronic neck and shoulder pain, tension headaches, and muscle spasms. Occasionally, the insertion site of the trapezius into the base of the skull is also treated for those who have occipital headaches.
Is TrapTox Safe?
Yes – when performed by a qualified provider, TrapTox is both safe and effective for aesthetic and therapeutic use. It’s similar in safety profile to facial Botox treatments. However, not everyone is a candidate, and proper evaluation is crucial.
TrapTox may not be suitable if:
- You have a recent neck or shoulder injury
- You suffer from disc disease or nerve entrapment
- You’re a weightlifter or athlete actively working to build trapezius muscle strength
In cases like these, neuromodulators could interfere with your fitness goals or fail to address the root cause of your pain. Make sure you visit a provider who is thoroughly assessing your symptoms and lifestyle before recommending treatment.
What to Expect: TrapTox Dosage, Timeline and Results
Neuromodulator dosage is highly variable, ranging from 25 to 70 units per side. For therapeutic relief, we typically treat to symptom relief, starting at a lower dose and working up until the symptoms are controlled. Just like any neuromodulator, TrapTox takes 14 days to fully kick in. While you will feel symptom relief around this time, slimming and neck elongation take a bit longer, as the muscle needs to slim down—this typically takes 1-2 months to see full results!
If you are interested in TrapTox in the Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill area, contact our office for more information on treatment.
